With the season quickly approaching, it is time to assemble the team of umpires that will officiate our 2023 Norfolk baseball season.  Umpiring is a challenging and rewarding way to stay involved in youth baseball and gain valuable experience in what is the first job for many kids.

Who should consider umpiring:

  • 13 year old and up former baseball and softball players
  • Possess self confidence to make the calls with players, coaches and fans watching
  • Mentally and physically comfortable calling balls and strikes behind the plate
  • Availability to work at least one game per week
  • Reliable transportation to the Norfolk baseball fields at Pond Street and the Freeman Kennedy
  • Desire to make some money.  Games start at $20 and progress with skill and experience

What preparation is required?

  • Need to register in the umpire assignment system
  • Take a written exam on rules of the game
  • On field session covering umpiring mechanics and teamwork
  • Uniform and equipment are provided

To get started:

  • Register on the Horizon Assignment System (“sign up” is bottom left of the page – returning umps should login to refresh their data)
  • Use Association 205601 when prompted
  • Use the umpire as the primary record (not the parent)
  • Enter a second parent email address for communication redundancy
  • Enter a phone number capable of receiving text messages and agree to receive texts
  • Note that sign-up is a two-stage process requiring that Brad accepts umpires into the system to complete registration
  • Information regarding testing and scheduling will follow registration

If you have any questions please let me know, please reach out to Brad McCreedy, our head of umpires.  This is Brad’s last year, and Norfolk Baseball is also looking for a volunteer to organize our umpire program going forward.  If you are interested in helping, please contact Brad for more details.

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